Senators: Hands Off Social Security

(photo: Molly Theobald via aflcio / Flickr)

Senators: Hands Off Social Security

"Hands off social security" was the message of a letter spearheaded and circulated by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), founder of the Senate Defending Social Security Caucus on Thursday, stating that the program has not contributed to the Federal deficit and should not be part of any deficit reduction package.

The letter was signed by 29 senators including Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.).

"Contrary to some claims, Social Security is not the cause of our nation's deficit problem. Not only does the program operate independently, but it is prohibited from borrowing," the letter said.

"Even though Social Security operates in a fiscally responsible manner, some still advocate deep benefit cuts and seem convinced that Social Security hands out lavish welfare checks. But Social Security is not welfare. Seniors earned their benefits by working and paying into the system," the letter added.

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